Eyes on Earth and To the Moon and Back is a highly interactive science exhibition produced and developed by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and the Imaginarium. The exhibit focuses on Earth observing systems (EOS) and examines how satellite observations are made and what we can learn about the Earth and they moon using space technology. Designed primarily for families and school groups (upper primary through adults), visitors learn what a satellite is, discover the different types of orbits.

The exhibit explores three major areas: Satellites, Orbits, and Satellite Technology.

Far beyond the atmosphere of Earth, at orbits ranging from 290 to over 35,400 km (180 to over 22,000 miles) above sea level, circle the satellites of the Earth Observing System (EOS), NASA's primary satellite mission. This small group of human-made scientific observers is constantly scanning our planet--tracking weather, monitoring pollution, creating maps, and gathering information that helps scientists predict storms, monitor forest fires, and study the holes in the ozone layer.

However, not all satellites are man-made we also have natural satellites. A satellite is a moon, planet or machine that orbits a planet or star. For example, Earth is a satellite because it orbits the sun. Likewise, the moon is a satellite because it orbits Earth. Usually, the word "satellite" refers to a machine that is launched into space and moves around Earth or another body in space.

The Moon orbits the Earth and is its only significant natural satellite. It is believed that about 4.5 billion years ago, a planet slightly larger than Mars struck the young Earth obliquely and later disintegrated. A small portion of the planet's original mass, trapped in orbit around the Earth, re-amalgamated to form the Moon.